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Words. They are powerful and meaningful beyond belief. They can literally change lives. Spoken or written in the right way, in the right manner, at the right time, life can be transformed. It is possible.

Jim Rohn, a self-development and motivational philosopher said it this way, “words almost have the power of G-d. Words create light and sight.” I believe. They can also take you in the other direction. We’ve all experienced hurtful words being said or written, that send you down, way down, until the right ones can pull you back up. But that’s how powerful they are.

A few months ago I heard words that illuminated my life:
For things to change, you have to change.
If you want more than you’ve got, you must become more than you are.
For things to get better, you have to get better.

All true. But listening to those words, actually spoken by Jim Rohn, made me stop and think, actually more than that… they made time stand still. For me, those words were powerful I still keep them on my night table, so I see them every evening before I go to sleep. What’s possible with words is they can help you, they can help me, they can help anyone to see themselves as better than who they are. Words can take you back in time to learn from your past experiences and more importantly can move you forward to see yourself in whatever light you wish. Imagine that. Words create light and insight. Insight is a magical, driving force.

Words in voice, on a piece of paper, on a computer screen, or mobile device, can transform you. The desire to share words and ideas has led me to create this blog and for this reason: when you share words, share ideas, or share a personal story, the audience can be transformed and so can the writer, or the speaker. Even if it is an audience of one. Doesn’t matter. If the light of insight means one person makes a change to live a better, happier, more successful life, then those words have served their purpose. It’s deep and to some the words might even sound silly, but if you embrace them, if you let the words raise you up, imagine what you can do for yourself and for others. What if somebody can’t see how they can make their life better, but you come along and tell them your story of success, or of gratitude, or even a story of failure and learning from your past mistakes. Maybe at that moment that person sees the light and gains insight. It could be a life transformed. That is true power.

Some of the most important words I’ve heard and read over the past few months are this: success in any part of your life is not something you pursue, it’s something you attract, by becoming more.

Becoming more. I’m working on it every day. I want the same for you. We have much more to say, to share, and to give.

Pilots call it the Magic Hour. Most of us call it Sunrise and Sunset. Some call it the Good Light.
Whatever you call it, when it’s visible, it never disappoints and it defines every single day of our lives. It’s the daily bookend to our existence and it can’t hurt to heed its lesson.

Rising in the morning, setting at night, without fail. We can’t always see it when the clouds blow in and mask its beauty, but that’s why, when it’s perfect, it’s special and we ought to pay attention. Because regardless it happens, it’s a constant, and can bring stability and purpose to life. If you let it.

Had a conversation with a friend the other day who was caught up in the total chaos of life. Raising a young family, work, health challenges, financial worries, exhaustion, lack of “me” time. Does it sound familiar? Author and speaker Brian Tracy writes, “Life is a continuous succession of problems. They never end. They come in like waves of the ocean, one after another. The only thing that matters is how effectively you respond when things go wrong.” Sounds about right.

Sunrise, Sunset. The Good Light. The Magic Hour. Constant. Ever try to live it? It happens, no matter what happens to you. So do the same. Bookend your own days.

What I mean is take control of what you do when you wake up, and when you go to sleep. Make those times in your life a ritual that brings light and purpose to your life. Get up before that morning light and read 10 pages of a good book, a book that educates, inspires, or motivates. Make a plan for your day. Write it down. Think of your “why” and what your ideal life might look like. Then, when the sun first hits the horizon and day breaks, look for the reinforcement of that dream. Even if you can’t see the colors that morning, you’ll see the day beginning to brighten. Light in your day, light in your life.

At sunset, stop for thirty seconds to appreciate this Magic Hour. Then, that night, appreciate a whole lot more. Read five pages of that same book that got your day going. Then think back on your day and take a few minutes for gratitude. It doesn’t take long. Appreciate the events of the day. Even if you had the worst day of your life, think of three things that happened that day for which you are grateful. It’s there, and if you focus on it, and not the other noise and chaos of that day, it can change a lot. Suddenly your mind relaxes and it’s easy to get to sleep and prepare to welcome tomorrow. Sunrise will happen no matter what, so why not be ready? Try this for awhile. Trying might just change your life.

Author Jeff Goins has got it right: “The truth is we don’t find our purpose in life by looking in the mirror. We find it by looking out the window.”

Here’s proof, when you pay attention to your purpose, opportunity presents itself and you can help other people and yourself. The other day I snapped a picture of a beautiful sunrise, that same day I stumbled upon a song that has just been released called “Good Light”. It’s by a young band, still trying to make their way, called Drew Holcumb and the Neighbors. Check out these lyrics….

Hey, there’s a good light shinin’ in you,
There’s a magic in your eyes
Hey, there’s a good light shinin’ through
I need it tonight

So here’s the cool thing. I looked up the song on You Tube. There was another video featuring the band and something about a pledge. I checked it out. It turns out Drew Holcumb and the Neighors is a completely independent band and is doing a total grass roots campaign to build support for their song and new album, “Good Light”, which will get wide release this Tuesday. If you like the song, the band wants you to go to Facebook, Twitter, send an e-mail to a friend, or tell a friend of a friend about the new song. If you do, and let them know about it at talkaboutdrew@gmail.com , the group will send you two free songs. I love the whole idea. Help the band, help yourself and help other people who might be inspired by the music. Why not give a good song a good launch? The link to the song and to the video is at the end of this blog. If you can’t click on it, copy and paste it into your browser.

You been lookin’ for rhyme and reasonThe confusion is draggin’ you downYou got lost in the chaosYou got lost in the ashes and dustWhat you needed was someone to trust.

Hey, there’s a good light shinin’ in you,
There’s a magic in your eyes
Hey, there’s a good light shinin’ through
I need it tonight

The picture says it all. It’s a dog’s world and we’re just living in it. Let’s be glad we are. The picture that is associated with this blog is the work of Andrea Zimmerman Nusinov, her talents are on display on her Facebook Page at AZN Pet Pics. Unbelievable work, right? The rich texture she can pull from a simple photograph of a dog served to remind me the richness they bring to the lives of anyone who is lucky enough to own one.

The dog in the picture is named Ollie. He’s a Shichon, a mix of Shih Tzu and Bichon. Ollie came into our lives about four years ago and we’ve never been the same… in a good way. Talk about giving and getting back. Give a dog a home, feed him, bathe him, play with him and he/she brings you unconditional love and affection you won’t find anywhere else. Sure you love your children like that – but do they greet you at the door every day like it’s the first time they have ever seen you? There’s nothing quite like a dog.

Whether you purchased or rescued, it’s really the same. Although I give a ton of credit and respect to those who go the rescue route. Especially after you own a dog, you realize how hurtful it is to see another one abandon or abused. A dog deserves a good home and to be well taken care of. They’re just so darn innocent and forgiving. We bought Ollie, and I’m not going to apologize for it. Believe me if you saw his picture as a puppy, you would have bought him too. What he has brought to our lives is immeasurable, as I know any dog owner can relate. The first three months of training were a bit rough, much like a new baby, and our boy was like Houdini. The places he would escape from when you tried to keep him confined to one area, are legendary and worthy of a short book sometime. I kept telling my wife, who was exasperated at his antics and some other activities he was doing, is that it will all be worth it. One day we’ll recount these stories and laugh about it. I couldn’t have been more right. And it couldn’t have been more worth it.

Somehow someway the good Lord makes these animals, one cuter than the next, and thankfully he does, because if they weren’t they couldn’t get away with so much. Do they get away with a lot? They run around outside, pee, poop, put their nose in other dogs “stuff”, sniff and lick other dogs, get dirty, smelly, muddy, they put their paws in who knows what, they have bad breath, the list goes on and on. Yet they come back in the door, give you a “kiss” (well most dogs do, not Ollie, again a story for another time), prance around the house, get on the bed, sofa, etc and you still love every inch of them. Would you let your kids do all this then hug them when they walk back in the door?? Not at my house.

Yet the dog gets to have all that fun and you just don’t care. It’s simply the power of love. The dog loves you like there’s no tomorrow, because they have no idea if there will be. Imagine if we all lived that way… so we put up with all that he/she is capable of. Hey, they’re acting like animals, cause they can! The more I think about it, the tougher it is to put into words, what Ollie, or any dog brings to our lives. Tough to remember life before him, tough to think about life without him. Damn dogs. They make you love them as much as they love you. In the big scheme of things, what’s wrong with that? I knew from the day we brought Ollie home that he would enrich our lives beyond measure. He’s one of the kids… and we know what they mean to our lives. We don’t bring dogs into the world, but we’ll stand by them ’til they leave it. Maybe because it’s such a short time on this earth, that the love is so unconditional, in both directions. Maybe if we all thought about each other the same way, we would love just a little bit more. Who knows?

It’s a lot to think about, so while you are.. check out some beautiful pics of man’s (and woman’s) best friend over at Andrea’s Facebook Page… AZN Pet Pics. E-mail her and maybe she can bring your dog to life as well, even more so than they have done for you already.

Another Miracle in Maryland last night at College Park, with the Terps beating the stunned Blue Devils and sports again takes center stage in our lives. It just keeps getting better.

And after watching the highlights again… I figured what better action to take on a cold Sunday morning here in Baltimore, than to look ahead and take a sneak peek at what’s going on down south. A good time to bask in the warmth of reading updates on the Orioles Spring Training. Speaking of more miracles.. if last season was a collection of them, this season is full of hope.

Buck and the boys are already at work putting together the squad for this 2013 campaign. And how cool is it to care??!! For the first spring training since before my own daughters were on this earth, the emotions and expectations down in Florida are warm and sunny.

Here’s just one excerpt from the Sporting News online:

Buck Showalter says he didn’t think anyone on his club was surprised with their performance in 2012. “Who was surprised?” Showalter asks in mock indignation, adding with a grin, “I was a little surprised.”

For Showalter, 2012 was just the beginning. Losing in the Division Series to the Yankees didn’t sit well with his club. “There is a pretty good fire that has been ignited,” Showalter says. “No one was satisfied. No one was celebrating after Game 5 with the Yankees. We felt like we’d had a bigger opportunity.” There are no Cinderellas… but in a private moment, (you have to think) “This is pretty cool, you know. I’m not so old that I can’t take that in and go ‘Wow!’

“There’s many a night where I kind of said, ‘Boy, I’m pretty lucky to be a part of this.

We were all a part of it… even those who NEVER experienced it. Maybe my most favorite personal moment of last season was taking my family to the game on a Friday night… fireworks night at Camden Yards. In the middle of another exciting O’s win, Sophie, (my then 12-year-old), was asking me about the numbers perched just below the upper deck seats in left field. I told her they are all retired jersey numbers from past Orioles players, Hall of Fame players, and in honor of their accomplishments those numbers will never be worn again in Baltimore. I then went down the line and told her stories and stats about each one. Ripken, Murray, Weaver, Brooks, Frank, Palmer. She turned to me and asked, “Dad, how do you know so much?”. I told her “I’ve always known and you never forget, but the O’s have been down so long, for longer than you’ve been alive, there was really no reason to share, now we’re back and it’s awesome.”

That moment with Sophie was about as awesome as it gets. Spring can’t some soon enough.

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Mark Brodinsky Emmy Award Winner, 1996

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Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

Beverlee Rendelman

Connect with Mark!

WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17September 24, 2013

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné PallaceSeptember 24, 2013

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. RiecksNovember 4, 2013

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109October 23, 2013

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. BogashSeven Valleys, PA

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

PattiMSeptember 25, 2013

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

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Put your hand in mine. Share my mind with yours. Pair our hearts to beat as one. In this life the source of joy and happiness comes from connection and compassion, which in turn creates courage. There is not weakness, but strength in the presence of vulnerability and incredible power in the purpose of letting […]